Four problems related to tailgate latch have been reported for the 2003 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2003 Explorer.
Structure,body, hatchback/liftgate,hinge and attachments. I was closing my hatch on my 2003 Ford Explorer VIN#1fmzu73k732b54248 when the left hinge broke free from the body of the vehicle.
On several occasions, the liftback on the vehicle unlatched itself. In all but one occurance, this was not noticed until after the vehicle was in a parked position. The most recent occurence was March 9, 2004.
On three separate occasions the gate lift of my Explorer opened on it's own. This happened when the vehicle was quite new. I reported it to Ford and they could not find the problem. They said that unless it malfunctioned while they were in possession of it, they could not remedy the problem. I now tie down the gate when carrying precious cargo, my dogs.
Ford Explorer, 4-door, 200 window on rear tailgate door "pops" open on rough roads. Happened 4 times with new vehicle with under 5,000 miles.
| Latches/locks/linkage problems | |
| Tailgate Latch problems | |
| Hatchback/liftgate Lock problems | |
| Hood Latch problems |